Vaccines at Work, Employee Rights in 2021: CityNews Interview

Interview Summary

As vaccine distribution across the country continues to increase, some are still wary of the COVID-19 vaccine and are concerned of their employment rights. Will employers be able to mandate vaccines in the workplace? Will employees be penalized for refusing to be vaccinated?

A Vancouver employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP spoke with CityNews regarding employee rights and vaccinations in the workplace.

Interview Notes

Can an employer ask an employee to be vaccinated in order to continue working?

Employers can request employees be vaccinated but cannot force them to do so and can ensure that there is a vaccination policy in the workplace. Employees who are unable or refuse to be vaccinated would likely have to continue social distancing or wear a mask indoors, as well as other health and safety measures. While employees have a right to refuse a vaccine, employers are obligated to provide a healthy and safe work environment for all staff.